Phuket has long been one of Thailand’s leading draws for international tourists
Thailand is significantly expanding its surveillance infrastructure on Phuket, the country’s most popular tourist island, in an effort to boost public safety and crime control. The “Phuket Eye” system, central to this initiative, will see a sharp increase in CCTV coverage and deeper integration with police databases to provide real-time monitoring across the island.
The decision follows a steady rise in tourist arrivals, prompting concerns around safety and the capacity of local authorities to respond effectively. Officials said the expansion aims to deter criminal activity, manage traffic more efficiently, and reassure both residents and visitors that Phuket is not only a picturesque destination but also a secure and well-governed one.
Under the new plan, the number of surveillance cameras will be doubled and linked to a unified platform to support faster police response and streamline government safety operations. The project reflects Thailand’s broader ambitions to position Phuket as a global model for tech-enabled tourism security and a trusted travel destination.
Phuket has long been one of Thailand’s leading draws for international tourists. As part of a wider “Phuket Model” introduced by the provincial police, the expanded Phuket Eye system forms a cornerstone of law enforcement and public order efforts on the island. Through its integrated camera network, the system allows authorities to access surveillance data in real time, enabling prompt intervention and response across high-traffic and vulnerable areas.
Since its implementation, the system has helped identify and issue penalties for more than 28,000 traffic violations involving foreign nationals, underlining its role in improving road safety and encouraging better driving behaviour.
One of the most notable successes came during this year’s Songkran Festival in April, traditionally a period associated with a spike in road accidents due to increased traffic and alcohol use. For the first time, Phuket recorded no traffic-related deaths during the festival – a result credited to enhanced surveillance and targeted public safety campaigns.
To build on the momentum, the government has approved a budget of 98 million baht (around USD 3 million) for the next phase of the Phuket Eye expansion, further cementing its commitment to safety and security in Thailand’s flagship tourist hub.